Citation

Sayegh L, Harrison DF. J. Aggression Maltreat. Trauma 2007; 15(1): 75-91.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J146v15n01_05

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Inconsistencies exist among Air Force commanders when disciplining spouse abuse offenders, possibly owing to inadequate training, unclear role expectations, conflicting policy statements, or personal biases. This situation may lead to inappropriate decisions, further endangering victims and negatively impacting mission readiness. A sample of 624 Air Force squadron commanders was surveyed to measure how their perceived role and operations tempo affect their disciplinary decisions on two abuse scenarios. The study tested role and decision-theory concepts. Statistical results supported role theory in the predicted direction, and decision theory, but in the opposite direction hypothesized. Implications for theory, practice, and policy development for the military are discussed.